Completing core training is the first step toward becoming a master gardener. Taught by MU Extension personnel and certified master gardeners, training topics include:

• Missouri Master Gardener program policies and procedures
• Plants and their environment
• Plant propagation
• Soils, plant nutrition and nutrient management
• Vegetable gardening
• Fruit production
• Establishment and care of woody ornamentals
• Pruning ornamental trees and shrubs
• Establishment and care of herbaceous ornamentals
• Managing lawns and turfgrass
• Residential landscaping
• Insects
• Preventing and managing plant diseases
• Using pesticides safely in the home and garden

Thanks to all who came out to make this year's plant sale a huge success!

We plan to use the funds to provide a college scholarship and educate the public through our demonstration gardens at the Lincoln County Health Department, the county courthouse and other local projects.

Lincoln County Master Gardener member Kim Robinson was proud to present the recipient of the fifth annual $500 scholarship to Caleb Hudson at Silex High School’s Senior Awards Night.

Caleb’s many academic accomplishments, his active FFA involvement with several impressive local and state awards, his extensive 4-H participation and numerous officer positions as well as his genuine enthusiasm and passion for agriculture made him an outstanding candidate for the scholarship. He plans to attend the University of Missouri in Columbia and major in plant science. Master gardeners are excited to “plant the seed” for Caleb to “grow” his dreams toward a successful career in plant science. Congratulations!

Master Gardeners are available to give presentations to schools, clubs and organizations in the area for a speaker fee of $25. Call 636-462-5782 to schedule a speaker.